Abuja, June 7, 2026 – Former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (retd.), has praised efforts aimed at nurturing young literary talents, describing mentorship initiatives for emerging writers as vital to national growth and development.
Speaking during the June edition of a monthly literary dialogue held in Abuja, Irabor said programmes that expose young people to literature, critical thinking and creative expression would encourage them to contribute positively to society through writing.
The event, held at the Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, brought together authors, students, scholars and literary enthusiasts for discussions on literature, leadership and national development.
Irabor, who attended as the guest writer for the session, described the gathering as an important platform that promotes interaction between students, academics and members of the literary community.
According to him, initiatives that actively involve students from different schools deserve sustained support because they help shape informed and responsible future leaders.
He expressed satisfaction with the level of awareness displayed by participating students, noting that their understanding of national issues and history reflected a promising outlook for the future.
The retired military officer, who published “Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum” in 2025, reiterated the importance of writers in shaping national discourse and preserving historical narratives.
He explained that the book was written to stimulate broader conversations on the country’s approach to security challenges and conflict management.
Irabor stressed that individuals and nations must tell their own stories to ensure accurate representation of events and experiences.
Drawing from nearly four decades of service in defence and security, he said he felt compelled to share insights that could contribute to discussions on national security and governance.
He added that writing remains one of the most effective ways to document experiences and influence positive change.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the association’s Abuja chapter, Chukwudi Eze, highlighted literature’s enduring role in preserving history, promoting accountability and fostering social cohesion.
He said Irabor’s selection as guest writer provided a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of military service, leadership and literary expression.
According to Eze, both writers and soldiers play significant roles in shaping a nation’s future, albeit through different means.
He noted that while security personnel safeguard the country through service and sacrifice, authors preserve collective memory through ideas and storytelling.
Referencing Irabor’s book, Eze said the publication reflects the human side of leadership and demonstrates the power of reflection, empathy and experience.
He observed that conversations centred on literature and leadership are increasingly important at a time when the nation faces security concerns, social divisions and widening generational gaps.
Eze urged continued documentation of personal and national experiences, stressing the need for platforms that encourage meaningful engagement between young people and experienced leaders.
He reaffirmed the chapter’s commitment to promoting reading culture, literary excellence and critical dialogue through its programmes.
Addressing students and aspiring writers at the event, he encouraged them to cultivate thoughtfulness, emotional intelligence and reflective thinking, describing books as powerful tools for personal transformation and leadership development.
The programme also featured panel discussions, spoken-word performances, poetry recitals, musical presentations and other creative displays by students. Awards were presented to outstanding student writers and poets, including recipients of the Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi Prose and Poetry Prize.